More patients are taking part in trials

NHS news.

Published:17:34Friday 27 July 2018

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More people in Northumberland are taking part in pioneering clinical research trials, latest figures have revealed.

The 2017/18 NIHR Research Activity League Table, published by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Clinical Research Network (CRN), shows 42,450 people getting involved in 1,630 trials in the north east.

Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust saw the number of participants increase by 26 per cent to 1,724, while Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust recruited 2,867 people to research trials, an increase of four per cent.

Prof Richard Walker, director of research at Northumbria Healthcare, said: “We’re pleased that our extensive work to raise awareness of our many research studies and our engagement with patient support groups has contributed to an increase in the number of people taking part in trials in our trust.

“Today’s research is tomorrow’s healthcare, with every patient participation providing evidence for future practice.

“We would encourage anyone who would like to find out more about getting involved to speak to their GP or their hospital consultant or see the Northumbria Healthcare website.”

Professor Stephen Robson, clinical director at NIHR Clinical Research Network North East and North Cumbria (CRN NENC), said: “It’s fantastic to see all the region’s trusts and CCG’s being research active this year.

“There are lots of research opportunities available to patients across the north east and north Cumbria who are keen to take part in studies.

“We would encourage anyone who has an interest to speak to their GP, hospital doctor or nurse.”

Commercial research activity is also gaining momentum. Collaboration with industry is vital to enable the NHS to deliver first class clinical research, speeding up the development and availability of new treatments, therapies and diagnostics.

Dr Jonathan Sheffield OBE, chief executive officer of the NIHR Clinical Research Network (CRN) said: “By taking part in life sciences industry studies, patients are participating in new and innovative forms of treatment which will provide evidence for future improved care for all patients.

“The knowledge gained could provide the evidence to license new treatments in the NHS securing healthy lives for future generations.”